🧩 TPE – Thermoplastic Elastomer
(Elastic and thermoplastic material that combines the properties of rubber with the processability of plastic. TPE can be melted, extruded, and re-welded, unlike vulcanized rubbers.)
🔹 What is TPE
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a family of elastic materials, including subtypes like TPE-S (SEBS), TPE-V (Santoprene®), and TPE-U (TPU). They are flexible, shock-resistant materials compatible with many thermoplastics like PP and ABS. At ReplastMD, we use TPE to restore components that require both flexibility and a strong thermal bond.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: Elastomeric copolymers (styrenic, olefinic, urethane, etc.).
- Density: 0.9 – 1.2 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 150 – 220 °C (depending on grade).
- Hardness: Variable (Shore A 20–90).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 80 – 120 °C.
🚗 Where TPE is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Gaskets & Seals | Doors, trunk, windows, headlights | Excellent elasticity and sealing |
| Soft Grips | Console, steering wheel, shifter | Pleasant soft-touch feel |
| Boots & Protectors | CV boots, dust covers, sleeves | Resists shock and vibrations |
| Anti-vibration | Mounts, inserts, dampers | Noise absorption and wear resistance |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 240 – 270 °C | Clean, malleable joint |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 230 – 250 °C | Bubble-free, uniform bonding |
| Plastic Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Use compatible TPE / TPU rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin-walled parts |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE (same type), TPU, TPO, SEBS.
- ⚠️ Partial: PP (Polypropylene) in certain blends.
- ❌ Incompatible: PA, PC, POM, PET, PVC (different polarities/melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Weld TPE with hot air at 250 °C using moderate airflow and gentle pressure. For sealing purposes, we recommend using transparent TPE/TPU rods for high-quality aesthetic results.
🧠 How to Identify TPE
- Soft, rubbery texture with immediate elastic recovery.
- ReplastMD practical test: Softens easily at 180–200 °C without excessive black smoke.
- Markings: >TPE<, >TPR<, >TPU<, >SEBS<.
- Behaves like flexible rubber but can be reshaped and melted.
🛠️ TPE Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for TPE, TPU, and TPO using industrial Leister tools. The result is a flexible, uniform, and airtight joint — plastic as good as new.